2007 Lincoln MKZ Review

In 2007 Lincoln has rebadged their midsize sedan after just one model year. The 2007 model is now named the MKZ - for Mark Z - and though it looks nearly identical to the Zephyr, there are two notable changes. The first is its drivetrain, which is more powerful for 2007; the second is the availability of all-wheel drive. The MKZ is Lincoln's entry-level car in the luxury sedan category. This midsize sedan is meant to provide a driving and ownership experience beyond what one can get from a non-premium branded sedan. The Lincoln MKZ benefits from a powerful V6 engine, available all-wheel drive and a distinctive, retro-look interior design. The Lincoln MKZ is a likeable mid-size sedan that is loaded and equipped with all-wheel drive.

MKZ Power and Handling

The 2006 Zephyr was powered by a 221-horsepower, 3.0-liter V-6, but the 2007 MKZ gets a 263-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 that makes 249 pounds-feet of torque. The sole transmission is a six-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is available. The MKZ name debuted in 2007 but Lincoln sold this car in 2006 as the Zephyr. Lincoln has decided to go with a three-letter naming scheme for the MKZ to more closely match other products in its lineup. The new powertrain is a huge improvement from the 3.0-liter. Additionally, all-wheel drive was not available in that first year. The one downside for used-car shoppers is the lack of stability control for the 2007 model. The MKZ does show a new direction for Lincoln. A key element in this shift is offering luxury vehicles that are able to engage the driver instead of treating him or her as another occupant who happens to be seated behind the steering wheel. The MKZ succeeds in this respect, managing the difficult trick of delivering a ride that is generally comfortable with handling that makes it interesting and gratifying to drive quickly on a challenging country road.

2007 Lincoln MKZ Design

 The MKZ is very similar in looks to the Zephyr - the two are nearly identical, save for the MKZ's more prominent fog lights and thin crossbar across its waterfall grille. The Zephyr's horizontal headlights and bisected taillamps remain. Seventeen-inch alloy wheels are available in chrome. This sedan's advantages include a competitive price and the availability of all-wheel drive (front-wheel drive is standard), which isn't offered on most of the MKZ's competitors. The drawbacks include its lack of electronic stability control or skid-management electronics. The Lincoln MKZ is styled in conservative fashion, creating a prim, proper effect. The one exception is a big, chrome grille, which Lincoln is using across its line in an effort to instill brand identity.

Inside the '07 MKZ

 The 2007 Lincoln MKZ comes in one trim level. The interior is generally a pleasant, convenient and reasonably quiet venue, if a bit less serene that a couple of other cars in this class. Leather upholstery, dual-zone temperature control, power heated front seats, a six-speaker AM-FM stereo with six-CD changer and redundant controls on the steering wheel, cruise control, power windows and door locks with remote entry and a number pad on the door, 17-inch wheels and a 60/40 split and fold-down rear seat all come standard. Satin and nickel trim adorn the MKZ's interior.

The two-binnacle dashboard features electroluminescent gauges, dual-zone automatic climate control and a conventional console gearshift as opposed to the gated versions in some competitors. Power-operated front seats are clad in leather, and the 60/40-split rear seats fold to provide access to the 15.8-cubic-foot trunk. Interior options include a navigation system and a premium audio system with 14 speakers. As one expects for the money, the interior looks more upscale than that in the Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan, which share the MKZ's underpinnings and some major mechanical components. As with most sedans advertised as five-passenger, the reality is that five is a crowd unless you are toting small children. Trunk capacity is rated at 15.8 cubic feet, which is more than many cars in this class. The trunk lid swings high for easy access, and the fold-down rear seat allows some flexibility for hauling more.

Summary

Front-wheel drive is standard. All-wheel drive is available. Safety features that come standard: side-impact air bags in front; curtain-style head protection airbags for all outboard positions; traction control and antilock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution, which distributes braking force to the tires with the most grip. For another look, read Motortrend's 2007 MKZ First Look. The Lincoln MKZ is a refreshing midsize option for consumers interested in a car outside of the norm. It is true, however, that some other competing models are a little more capable or refined. Additionally, the Lincoln brand itself has a tangible lack of prestige after so many years of neglect. Still, most entry-luxury sedan shoppers will find it worth their while to take a closer look.